Florida State-Approved First-Time Driver Courses
Tri-County Human Services offers Florida state-approved first-time driver education courses designed to help new drivers meet licensing requirements and develop safe driving habits.
Depending on your age, you may be required to complete one of the following programs before obtaining a Florida learner’s permit or driver’s license.
Drug, Alcohol & Traffic Education (DATE)
The Drug, Alcohol & Traffic Education (DATE) course is a 4-hour online program required for individuals 18 years of age and older who are applying for their first Florida driver’s license.
Who Needs the DATE Course?
The DATE course is generally required for:
- First-time Florida driver’s license applicants age 18 or older
- Individuals who have not previously completed a state-approved DATE/TLSAE course
- Drivers required to complete first-time driver education before obtaining a Florida license
Course Information
- Course Length
- 4 Hours
- 4 Hours
- Course Format
- Online
- Available in English and Spanish
- Course Cost
- $35.00
- Additional processing fees may apply
- What You’ll Learn
- Florida traffic laws
- Safe and defensive driving techniques
- Driver responsibility
- The effects of alcohol and drugs on driving ability
- Impaired driving prevention
- Safe decision-making behind the wheel
Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS)
The Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course is a 6-hour online program required for individuals under the age of 18 seeking a Florida learner’s permit.
Beginning July 1, 2025, Florida law requires first-time drivers under 18 to complete the DETS course before becoming eligible for a learner’s permit. The DETS course replaces the former 4-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) requirement for teen drivers.
Who Needs the DETS Course?
The DETS course is generally required for:
- First-time drivers under the age of 18
- Teens applying for a Florida learner’s permit
- New drivers who must satisfy Florida’s driver education requirement before permit eligibility
Course Information
- Course Length
- 6 Hours
- 6 Hours
- Course Format
- Online
- Online
- What You’ll Learn
- Florida traffic laws and regulations
- Safe and defensive driving practices
- Driver responsibility and decision-making
- Sharing the road safely with other motorists
- Risk recognition and crash prevention
- The dangers of distracted, impaired, and reckless driving
Completion Reporting
Upon successful completion, course results are electronically reported to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Students will receive documentation of course completion.
Important Information
- Students must complete all course requirements before receiving credit.
- Registration information must match official identification records.
- Course completion records are submitted directly to the State of Florida.
- If you are unsure which course you need, please contact our office before registering.
Ready to Get Started?
Take Your Florida State-Approved Driver Education Course Online Today
Call (863) 701-1919
Email DUI@tchsonline.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tri-County install Ignition Interlock Devices?
No. Ignition Interlock Devices must be installed by a FLHSMV-approved IID vendor. Tri-County provides monitoring and compliance services when required.
What is an IID violation?
Violations may include failed breath tests, missed retests, device tampering, or other compliance issues identified through the IID program.
What happens if FLHSMV refers me to the DUI Program?
You may be required to meet with our staff to review the violation, discuss compliance requirements, and complete any required monitoring activities.
Can an IID affect my driver’s license status?
Yes. Failure to comply with IID requirements may affect driving privileges and could result in additional action by FLHSMV.